Hello,
I hope this note finds all well.
I'm interested in modeling a Big Boy #4012 using the New BLI Paragon 3 Big Boy. I was interested in opinions regarding the best way to accomplish this.......
Option #1 - "Unlettered/Unnumbered" version and use Microscale decals to letter & number in #4012
OPtion #2 - Use a Numbered & Lettered version & change them with decals.
My concerns with option #1 are I will miss some lettering & numbering that BLI puts on that the Microscale decal sheets don't cover. Also, the front shield numbering.
My concerns with option #2 are obviously removing current #'s and blending the new numbers especially on lighted #boards and again the the front UP shield.
Thanks in advance for any & all input.
all my best,
Eric B.
You could check hobby shops, train shows or ebay for this one:
http://www.athearn.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=ATHG97204
or this one
http://mthtrains.com/80-3190-1
As to decal work yourself, are they making a coal tender with the new BLI 4014, or just the oil tender?
Eris, there isn't a lot of lettering on the UP 4000's. front - UP shield, with white outline and white lettering, numbers in indicator boards (usually the loco number, but could be train number if on a scheduled run. Cab sides the loco number and the small lettering along the bottom of the cab (engine class, cylinder size, weight, ownership) Tender sides - "UNION PACIFIC". The fire hose is labelled on models but that doesn't show up well on prototype photos). Tender rear "UP 4012" and the capacity of the tender.
I haven't tried removing BLI lettering, but usually 91% isopropyl alcohol works well without damaging the plastic. Some of us would put on a THIN coat of a gloss or semi gloss black to provide a good surface for the new decals. Seal with the dull finish of your choice.